Dear Subscriber First Name,

The last few weeks before a wedding bring on so many emotions, especially excitement. During the last 4-6 weeks, couples are confirming their final guest counts, seating assignments, song choices, and all the last-minute details. One key task that is sometimes overlooked, especially if you do not have a planner, is the Photography Shot List. This list is crucial in so many ways!

A photography shot list is a list of must-have photos and details that you want photographed on the day of your wedding. It includes the specific groupings you want including names and relations (couple, couple with parents, couple with wedding party, etc.). The list is segmented into getting ready, first looks, couple portraits, wedding party portraits, and family and friends. The ceremony and reception are usually not included as they are a given.

Today I will discuss why a shotlist is important, how it fits into your timeline, and who it impacts. I promise you, though a bit longer than my usual, this is a must read!

For those of you feeling lost in the Wedding Planning process, I would love to hear from you! I have had one opening for 2024 and am actively booking for 2025. Click below to get in touch!

Why is a Shot List so important?

This list includes all the people and details that are important to you. The number of groupings listed will determine how long you need for each time segment. Your wedding should not be a full-on photoshoot. Yes, there are essential photos and memories you want to capture, but candids are just as important. Therefore, by creating an initial Shot List and having your photographer and planner look it over, they can discuss with you whether or not your list is too long and how to identify genuine “must-have” photos vs. nice-to-haves.

How does it fit into the timeline?

Your timeline is a plan for the day, and your shot list lives within the different time slots. An example of a timeline with a “first look” is below. Now, let's look at this from a backward point of view for a second. Let's say your ceremony begins at 5:30 pm. That means you must be hidden by 5:00 pm so no guests see you as they enter. Let's say that you fully intend to enjoy your cocktail hour, which is one of the benefits of doing a first look. Therefore, your portrait photos must be done before the ceremony. So now it's time to determine the length of the time slots. The size of each segment will depend on how many groups or variations of each group you want the photographer to capture. Once we have the scheduled times defined, with a buffer, of course, because no one is ever late, we can determine when the first look will happen. That time will then decide when you need to leave your getting-ready location (if you are not at the venue) or determine when all the getting-ready photos need to be finished, translating into what time hair and makeup need to start and finish.

If your hair and makeup run over, someone is late, or you have too long of a shot list, your day will start a cycle of stress. Let’s AVOID that at all costs! Having a list of must-haves for details, getting ready, etc. - your timeline can be spaced appropriately.

Who does it impact?

Your shot list impacts you, your bridal party, your family, your photography/videography team, your hair and makeup team, and shuttles. Truthfully, if your timeline gets delayed and your shot list is way too long, it can also negatively impact everyone. Without this list, you could miss out on capturing some key family moments, or the segmented times might be too short, making you feel rushed or missing parts of your party.

When your list of must-haves is determined, your planner or photographer will input that into your timeline so that you can let your bridal party and family know when to get where. For instance, Grandma doesn’t need to get to the venue for the first look. She can arrive 30 minutes before family photos (confirm with her transportation when she needs to leave). This schedule will also flag the shuttles when you, your partner, and your bridal party need to leave your getting-ready locations.

Your wedding is about you and your partner getting married and celebrating it with your nearest and dearest. The photos are essential, but having a stress-free, flowing day is equally important.

Wedding Planning and Design are indeed a passion of mine. I have been blessed to work with many amazing clients and create fabulous designs. I would love to speak with you about your vision and how I can make your planning experience fun and seamless.

xo

Danielle Caldwell